“The driver's statement needs corroboration. Investigators are examining records, communications, and other evidence.”
Richard nodded.
He had learned not to mistake suspicion for proof.
Not anymore.
But the investigation was moving.
And for the first time since Laura's funeral, the circumstances of her death were being examined as something more than a tragic weather-related collision.
The news did not remain private.
Within weeks, questions about Bennett & Cole Restoration began circulating through the local business community.
Employees heard that company records were being reviewed.
Subcontractors asked whether their invoices would be paid.
Clients wanted reassurance that ongoing projects could continue.
A local newspaper reported that investigators were examining alleged financial irregularities involving the housing rehabilitation initiative.
Richard found himself answering questions he once would have directed automatically to Adrian.
This time, he refused to hide behind a public relations statement that claimed everything was normal.
He met with employees.
Explained that an independent review was underway.
Acknowledged that serious concerns had been identified.
And told them the company would cooperate with lawful investigations while working to protect legitimate projects and payroll.
Some employees were frightened.
Others were angry.
A few left.
Richard did not blame them.
Trust had been damaged.
And people with families could not always afford to wait while their employer untangled years of misconduct.
He began personally reviewing the status of the housing projects Laura had cared about.
At East Millbrook, he walked through apartment buildings where repairs had been delayed.
He saw water stains across ceilings.
Damaged flooring.
Old windows that leaked during heavy rain.
Families who had been promised improvements they never received.
One resident recognized him.
She was an older woman standing outside her apartment with a grocery bag.
“You're Mr. Bennett.”
Richard stopped.
“Yes, ma'am.”
She studied him.
“Your wife came here once.”
His chest tightened.
“Laura?”
The woman nodded.
“She sat at my kitchen table.”
Richard felt something move inside him.
The resident continued.
“She asked what repairs had been promised. Took notes. Looked at the ceiling.”
She shook her head.
“She was upset.”
Richard swallowed.
The woman looked toward the building.
“She told me somebody had to answer for the money.”
For a moment, Richard could not speak.
Then he whispered, “She was right.”
The woman studied him.
He continued.
“And I'm sorry nobody listened sooner.”
She nodded slowly.
Then asked, “Are you going to finish the repairs?”
Richard looked toward the damaged windows.
He knew he could not honestly promise every financial problem would be solved quickly.
But he could explain the work being organized.
He told her the legitimate contracts were being reviewed and that an independent construction manager had been asked to assess what remained necessary.
The woman listened.
Then nodded.
“Your wife cared.”
Richard's eyes filled.
“I know.”